Why insect ecologist Dr. Frances Sivakoff uses a CI-202 Portable Laser Leaf Area Meter.

When we hear the word “insect,” our minds often conjure up images of pesky buzzing creatures who sting or bite us, or destroy all of the vegetables in our garden.

But for Dr. Frances Sivakoff, a postdoctoral insect ecologist from Ohio State University, insects are not only her primary research focus, but also important players in our environment.